Pages

1.06.2009

replacing zippers

I've had a few requests to create tutorials for basic sewing repairs. The most frequent request is about how to replace a zipper. I will admit upfront that I am not fantastically good at this. My zipper replacements have been adequate (mostly), but not tremendously pretty. It is one of those things where taking the time pays off in aesthetics, and if you notice how many of my tutorials are based around doing something quick quick, you'll know that time is not where my wealth is.

Zipper replacement is extremely intimidating to us novice stitchers. I would of never even tried it except that the sewing test I took as a prerequist to my brief stint as an actual real live professional seamstress in training (no, not that kind, thank you pratchett readers), was to replace a jean's zipper (talk about being in over one's head). I did learn what how the pros do it (and passed the test too). Let me tell you, it is not difficult. But it does take time. And a seam ripper.

Sorry, no whizzy photos in bad lighting for this one. You've seen zippers (hint: look down). Are you ready to learn professional seamstress craft secrets of zipper replacement?

Okay: First, use a seam ripper (or a razor blade) to remove the stitching holding on the broken zipper. As you are removing the stitches, take note of how the zipper was sewn in (or take a picture with a camera if there is something particularly interesting or odd about it).

Second, sew in the replacement zipper in the exact same location as the broke one using the holes from the removed thread as a guide. That's it.

There really is no mystic to replacing zippers, it's mostly just a puzzle - fitting the new piece in so that all the edges align. Time, and a seam ripper, are your greatest assets. And maybe a glass of wine.

I just found your blog and i have to say I LOVE IT you have given me so much to go off of. I just recently decided to start making my daughters clothes and this site has helped me out so much thanks and I look forward to seeing what else you come up with.

Well, talk about taking the mystery out of it! Thanks for the tute. Now I might actually have the guts to try it. I often find that my fear of zippers will cause me to pass on an item instead of trying to fix it but now I guess I don't have that excuse anymore. The timing is perfect because we just got the cutest hand me down jacket for my daughter just to find that the zipper was broken. She was very unhappy that I couldn't just fix it. Now I will have a chance to try my new merging skill. Thanks again!

Welcome

Thanks for stopping by. I am a person, sewist, dollmaker, homeschooling mom, unconscionable reader and some other things that you probably don't need to worry about. Feel free to leave comments and book recommendations for me and to really get my attention, email me at cdbees[at]hotmail.com.

Blog Archive

Follow by Email

This is the area where it usually says "The information on this website is intended for home-use only and not for commercial distribution."

However, since I believe that when I give I should give with both hands, this actually is the area where I tell you to go ahead and use the information on this website in any way that you need to. Good luck to you.

Oh, except, photos! Photographs on this site are mine and do not use them without permission, thank you.